Golden Circle Glacier & Northern Lights Afternoon Tour
Ancient lava fields, erupting geysers, cascading waterfalls, and Iceland's second-largest glacier — all in one afternoon.
The Golden Circle glacier tour is one of Iceland's most complete half-day journeys, combining the country's most iconic natural landmarks with an optional glacier snowmobile experience and a winter northern lights hunt from a single afternoon departure out of Reykjavík.
The route follows a well-established circuit through southwest Iceland, beginning at the UNESCO-recognised Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly pull apart across a 9,000-year-old lava field. The site also served as the seat of Iceland's ancient parliament, making it a place of both geological and historical importance.
From Þingvellir, the tour moves to the geothermal valley of Haukadalur, where the Strokkur geyser erupts roughly every five to seven minutes, sending boiling water between 25 and 30 metres into the air. The colourful hot spring pools surrounding the geyser add further visual interest to a stop that rarely disappoints.
The afternoon concludes at Gullfoss waterfall before continuing north along the historic Kjölur road toward Langjökull glacier. Depending on the season, guests can drive directly onto the glacier or join a snowmobile excursion. Winter departures include a northern lights search on the return to Reykjavík, while summer guests experience Iceland's famous midnight sun.
Tour Highlights
Walk through Þingvellir National Park and observe the visible rift between two tectonic plates.
Watch Strokkur geyser erupt every 5 to 7 minutes from the geothermal area of Haukadalur.
Stand at the edge of Gullfoss, a two-tiered glacial waterfall plunging into the Hvítá river canyon.
Access Langjökull, Iceland's second-largest glacier, by vehicle in summer or snowmobile in winter.
Travel part of the historic Kjölur highland road, referenced in Iceland's medieval sagas.
Search for the northern lights on the return journey during winter departures.
Enjoy a countryside dinner stop before returning to Reykjavík in the evening.
Itinerary
The tour begins at Þingvellir, where a 20-minute walk takes guests through the mid-Atlantic ridge. The site is also historically significant as the location of Iceland's earliest parliament, Alþingi.
At the geothermal field of Haukadalur, Strokkur erupts reliably every 5 to 7 minutes. Guests can explore the surrounding colourful hot springs while waiting for each eruption.
Gullfoss drops in two tiers into the Hvítá river gorge, with glacial meltwater generating considerable spray and power. The viewpoints here offer perspectives at both rim level and closer to the falls.
Heading north on the Kjölur road, the tour reaches Langjökull, Iceland's second-largest glacier. In summer guests drive onto the glacier; in winter, snowmobile activities take place on or adjacent to it depending on conditions.
A dinner break in the Icelandic countryside provides a chance to rest before the return leg. This stop is included as part of the afternoon schedule.
Winter guests will have the opportunity to search for the aurora borealis on the drive back. Summer guests experience the extended daylight of Iceland's midnight sun during the return journey.
What Is Included
Included
- Guided afternoon tour of the Golden Circle
- Visit to Þingvellir National Park
- Geyser viewing at Haukadalur
- Gullfoss waterfall stop
- Glacier access at Langjökull
- Countryside dinner
- Northern lights search (winter) or midnight sun experience (summer)
- Return transport to Reykjavík
Not Included
- Snowmobile rental on Langjökull glacier (optional extra)
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot
This afternoon tour covers the full Golden Circle route, glacier access, and a seasonal bonus — northern lights in winter or midnight sun in summer. Availability is limited, so secure your place in advance.
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